Fire broke out at Adolf Hitler's Eagle's Nest retreat in Bavaria, prompting the arrest of a suspect. Over 200 firefighters tackled the blaze at a remote location 1,834 metres above sea level. The fire was fully extinguished by Saturday morning, though smoke continued to rise from the smouldering building.
A 33-year-old German man was detained after police encountered a rider on a red motorcycle with no license plate. Investigators suspect the fire was arson, though a political motive is not ruled out. The suspect underwent a psychiatric examination and was temporarily detained. Firefighters and police arrived at the scene as the building was already ablaze.
The Eagle's Nest, a historic site linked to Hitler's Third Reich, is set to be preserved despite the damage. Authorities emphasize the importance of remembering the legacy of the regime. The site, which has hosted exhibitions and a restaurant since 1952, is part of Germany's toxic history. No injuries were reported, and the building remains closed for now.
Authorities have not yet determined the cause of the fire, though the suspect is believed to have been in the area. The fire was triggered by a smoke detector alert at 9:50pm local time, leading to a swift response from emergency services. The site, which has been a symbol of Hitler's rule, is expected to remain under scrutiny for its historical significance.